Setting Our Eyes on the Prize in 2009

Setting Our Eyes on the Prize in 2009
Thursday January 1, 2009
Hebrews 12:1-2
Crossing the Finish LinePhoto: Adam Pretty / Getty Images

"... let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (NIV)

I don't make New Year's resolutions. Instead, at the beginning of each year, I like to challenge myself and remind others to make a fresh commitment to the Lord. These verses in Hebrews 12 lay out a perfect 3-step prescription for renewing our dedication, refocusing our energy, and getting our Christian walk on track for the year ahead.

Examine Ourselves
We begin by examining our lives and "throwing off" or getting rid of everything that slows us down or trips us up. If we're honest with ourselves, we know those things that creep into our lives and entangle us. They wrap around our ankles and tie us down so we can't run with purpose.

Persevere in God's Word
Next we run, and keep on running. Hebrews says, "run with perseverance the race marked out for us." How do we find the path "marked out" for us? The course is set down in God's Word. If we persevere daily in reading the Bible, we'll know the course to run.

Fix Our Eyes on the Prize
Lastly, we keep our eyes on the prize, Jesus Christ. If something moves into our line of sight and obscures our vision, we quickly shift position. If we veer in the wrong direction, we immediately turn until we're back on track. Fixing our eyes on Jesus will get us to the finish line if we don't grow weary and give up.

For practical help putting these steps into practice, consider these resources:

* Spending Time With God - 7-part series of practical teachings on developing a devotional life.
* Developing a Daily Devotional - Steps for creating your own custom devotional plan.
* How to Study the Bible - Learn a simple, step-by-step Bible study method.
* Choosing a Bible Reading Plan - Stay on track with a daily Bible reading plan.
* How to Avoid Temptation - 5 steps to avoid temptation.
* How to Avoid Backsliding - 10 steps to avoid backsliding.